Statement of Israel at the May 15 Open Debate on Sexual Violence in Conflict
SSR
One of the most disturbing aspects of this phenomenon is the fact that many cases go unreported. The reasons for that are clear — the fear of stigma, the fear of reprisals and a lack of avenues for redress prevent many from reporting what has been done to them or to their loved ones. We must help the victims break the wall of silence and make sure that they have legal recourse.
The international community has a collective responsibility to the victims of sexual violence in conflict. All of us — Governments, civil society and United Nations agencies — must work together to pass stronger laws, strengthen enforcement and introduce tougher penalties for offenders. People around the world demand concrete action. Victims of sexual violence in conflict cry out for help. We must act, and we must act now. The victims and survivors of sexual violence deserve nothing less.
SGBV
The term “conflict-related sexual violence” is far too weak to actually describe the hell that women, men and children are forced to go through. It is our duty to speak against these horrors. It is what the people of the world demand of us. Silence is not an option in the face of rape, sexual slavery, forced prostitution, forced pregnancy, forced abortion, enforced sterilization and forced marriages. These are the horrible realities of far too many around the world.
In territories controlled by Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant (Da’esh), women are being herded into pens, only to be later sold in open air markets in city centres. Young girls are given as trophies to fighters after they come back from the battlefield.
implementation
According to the Secretary General’s report (S/2017/249), this terror tactic is being used not only by non-State actors, but also by national armed forces of States Memberes of the Organization. That is a dreadful thought. The report also offers practical recommendations for the Security Council, Member States and regional organizations on the important steps that must be taken by the international community. Those recommendations can no longer be ignored. Israel fully supports the recommendations and strongly encourages others to do the same.